Historical Increases in the Liberalisation Threshold in Tilb

The rent liberalisation threshold has been adjusted multiple times since 1990 to reduce the social housing sector in Tilburg. Started at €600 (1990), rose to €712.50 (2013), €752.33 (2021) and €808.06 (2024). These increases, introduced by cabinets such as Rutte-II and III, respond to housing shortages and pressure on Tilburg housing associations such as WonenBreeveld and Sint Joseph. Objective: create more mid-segment rental housing in neighbourhoods such as Oud-Zuid and Het Zand, and relieve housing associations for low-income groups. Political debate in Tilburg rages over gentrification; critics fear displacement of middle-income earners from the city due to rising rents around the Spoorzone. Legally enshrined in the Housing Act and annually indexed with inflation plus a correction factor. Between 2015-2020 the threshold remained stable at €711, but the Affordable Rent Act (2021) brought a significant increase. Consequence: approximately 8% of rental properties in Tilburg were liberalised, especially in growth areas such as Reeshof and Kralingen. Tenants with long-term contracts from the 'pre-liberalisation' period sometimes retain old rules via transitional law, as confirmed by the regional Rent Committee. Landlords must respect the threshold for new contracts, with stricter enforcement by the municipality of Tilburg. Future: possible further increase in 2025 due to nitrogen and climate policy, which adds extra pressure to Piushaven developments. Sources: Staatscourant, Rent Committee reports and Tilburg Housing Market Monitor provide detailed tables. This insight aids strategic rent price determination in the region. (218 words)